What are the differences between indica and sativa?
What are the differences between indica and sativa?
Indica and sativa are the two best-known species of the cannabis plant. Although they are linked by similarities other than their genus name, such as their content of the two major cannabinoids THC and CBD, they differ significantly in a number of other ways.
Appearance
One of the most important differences between indica and sativa is their appearance. While the Indian hemp plant tends to be shorter and more branched, with sturdier stems and broader, darker leaves, sativa plants tend to be taller and more slender, with narrower, lighter leaves.
Geographical origin
The two types of hemp also differ in their origins. While Indian hemp most likely originated in the Hindu Kush region of Asia, true hemp probably originated in Central America.
THC and CBD content
The two species differ in the content of the two main cannabinoids, THC and CBD, or more precisely, in their relative abundance.
THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for inducing the 'high'. CBD is a cannabinoid with a number of important medicinal effects without the psychoactive properties for which cannabis is no less sought after.
The average THC content of indica and sativa strains is not significantly different. The indica variety has a higher CBD content than the sativa variety. The relative abundance of the two main cannabinoids is close to 1:1.
The ratio of THC to CBD is noticeably higher in hemp.
Effects
The different proportions of the two main cannabinoids imply that the two varieties have different overall effects on the human body.
Indian hemp is usually associated with relaxing and mildly sedative effects. Due to its higher CBD content, it can help with pain relief, body tension, nausea and insomnia. In countries where use is legal, Indian hemp is used to induce a feeling of tiredness before sleep.
On the other hand, hemp seed is sought after for its energising effects, which are felt mainly by the mind. Cannabis sativa is sought after by people suffering from mental problems, depression, irritability or fatigue. Cannabis is also used to boost creativity and mental performance.
Hybrids
In addition to the actual species Cannabis sown und Indian hemp, hybrids have been specially bred to combine the characteristics of both species. Hybrids are bred with either indica or sativa characteristics, depending on the genetic code of the original parent plants. Such hybrids often carry the positive effects of both main cannabis species and tend to be the preferred option for those seeking an optimal balance.
Hybrids are also often chosen for practical reasons, as there is often a desire to grow cannabis that combines the overall energising effects of sativa, but with the significantly shorter flowering time typical of indica.
There is no cannabis like cannabis
In conclusion, for all the similarities between the two species, there are a number of important differences between indica and sativa. Whether it is the appearance of the plants, flowering time, origin or the content of active cannabinoids, the factors for which one or the other variety is preferred are many.
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